# Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024
This bill approves a settlement agreement that resolves water rights disputes involving the Navajo Nation in the Rio San José Stream System in New Mexico. The settlement establishes the Navajo Nation's legal entitlement to specific quantities of water and creates a trust fund to help the nation develop water infrastructure and services.
The federal government will contribute $223.3 million to a trust fund: $200.3 million for water infrastructure development and $23 million for ongoing operations and maintenance. The State of New Mexico must contribute $3 million (adjusted for inflation) to support local irrigation districts. The Navajo Nation can use these funds to build water systems, conduct feasibility studies, drill wells, and support agricultural and economic development.
The settlement protects the Navajo Nation's water rights from being lost through non-use and allows the nation to lease water rights for up to 99 years, though New Mexico must first pass legislation authorizing such leases. The bill also expands the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project to serve communities in the Rio San José Basin.
In exchange for these benefits, the Navajo Nation agrees to waive most historical water rights claims against the federal government and other parties related to this stream system, though it retains rights to enforce the settlement agreement and pursue environmental claims. The settlement becomes effective once all parties execute the agreement, federal funds are deposited, and a state court enters a final decree.
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